President Bola Tinubu has reiterated that securing the country, restoring peace, and expanding economic opportunities are the core focus of his administration.
His message was delivered in Lokoja on Sunday during the memorial event for former Kogi State Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, represented the President at the gathering.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris told attendees that the Federal Government remains determined to tackle anything that threatens national stability.
“We are under no illusions about the recent setbacks and security challenges that have tested our nation’s resolve. Let me be unequivocal: the security and welfare of every Nigerian remain the sacred priority of my government. We have therefore taken decisive action,” he said.
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He noted that the State of Emergency declared on national security signals a renewed national effort to expand security manpower, modernise intelligence operations, and introduce wide-ranging reforms, including steps toward establishing State Police.
According to him, “The recent Declaration of a State of Emergency on national security underscores the gravity with which we view this challenge. This is not a mere proclamation; it is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity.
“As part of this, we have immediately begun the process of expanding the capacity of our armed forces and security agencies in numbers, in advanced weaponry, and in intelligence capabilities.
“We will hunt the enemies of our state wherever they may be and restore the peace that is the rightful inheritance of every Nigerian.”
Idris added that restructuring the security framework is essential for long-term safety.
“To secure our people permanently, we must reform the very architecture of our security. This is why my administration is courageously championing the establishment of a State Police Force. We believe that a more localised, community-sensitive security structure is vital to complement the valiant efforts of our national forces. It will also boost employment in the grassroots.
“This is a bold, necessary constitutional step, one that requires our collective will, and we are committed to seeing it through,” he said.
He also revealed that the Federal Government is intensifying diplomatic efforts to counter misinformation about Nigeria’s religious harmony.
Turning to the legacy of the late Audu, Tinubu described him as an important figure in the nation’s democratic progression.
“We are gathered to honour a giant — a man whose name is irrevocably woven into the very fabric of our democratic journey. Prince Abubakar Audu was not just a politician; he was a pathfinder. As the first democratically elected Governor of Kogi State, first in 1992 and again as a pioneer in 1999, Prince Audu carved out a vision for Kogi State and helped lay the foundation for our nation’s enduring democracy,” the President said.
Tinubu also recalled their political ties. “He was my formidable ally, a brother in the struggle, and one of the founding fathers who, with courage and conviction, laid the foundations upon which our democratic ideals now stand.
“His legacy is not a relic of the past; it is a living, breathing template of bold leadership and transformative governance. It is a template this administration is committed to honouring, not just in words, but in concrete action.”
The President further outlined his administration’s reforms across critical sectors, including a major initiative to transform livestock farming.
“We are launching a comprehensive initiative to modernise the livestock industry. This includes the creation of large-scale ranching schemes, improved animal husbandry, and the integration of the livestock value chain into our national economy. Our goal is to transform this critical sector from a source of tension into a bastion of prosperity.”
He added that the government is strengthening support for vulnerable citizens, entrepreneurs, and young people through the Social Investment Programmes, while also investing in infrastructure.
“We are building the arteries that will connect our markets, power our industries, and unite our people. Your Excellency and the good people of Kogi State, the legacy of development Prince Audu began in Kogi is a model we are determined to replicate and scale across the nation,” he said.
Sunday’s event drew political leaders, family members, and supporters of the late governor.
Tinubu’s renewed stance on security follows another wave of mass abductions in Niger and Kebbi states.
In Niger, armed men abducted staff and students of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA, days after 25 students were seized in Maga, Kebbi State.
Amid the worsening situation, the President cancelled planned trips to South Africa and Angola to directly oversee the government’s security response, while several northern states have temporarily closed schools as the kidnappings continue.
